KUALA LUMPUR, July 18 (Bernama) -- The Human Resource Ministry will conduct a study to determine whether self-employed workers can be allowed to contribute to the Social Security Organisation (Socso) funds under proposed amendments to the Socso Act 1969.

Human Resource Minister Datuk Seri Dr S.Subramaniam said the study was needed due to the high number of requests from self-employed workers to contribute to Socso or also known as Perkeso.

"When Socso expands it coverage there are bound to be implications and Socso is required to study the implications so that it can benefit everyone," he told reporters after presenting Long Service and Excellence Awards here tonight.

Perkeso Chief Executive Officer Datuk K. Selvarajah and Human Resource Ministry's Secretary-general Datuk Seri Zainal Rahim Seman were also present.

The ministry is examining how to include the self-employed as a contributor under the Socso Act, or if there is a need to come up with a separate legislation to facilitate the process.

In his speech, Subramaniam also urged the staff of Perkeso to provide efficient, effective and prompt service with a smile when attending to those who seek assistance or information.

During the presentation, 58 staff received the Excellence Award, 39 received Long Service awards for serving 20 years and another 12 for serving 25 years.